Concept of Transformative Learning in Modern Education

Introduction Transformative Learning is a type of learning that is supposed to innately create understandings for participatory democracy by developing abilities of critical reflection on assumptions taken for granted that support contested viewpoints and participation in dialogue that disregards frictional threats to the values those rights and freedoms are intended to protect.Advertising We will write a custom coursework sample on Concept of Transformative Learning in Modern Education specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper argues that the concept of transformative learning is elastic enough to adapt to other knowledge systems. In as much as transformative learning is viewed as a process rather than a technique, it is intrinsically evident in various studies involving different knowledge systems. Adapting transformative learning to different knowledge systems As the word suggests, transformative learning is about transformin g or changing. Whatever is being changed has not been clearly defined, but it can be argued that the change involves many aspects such as viewpoints, traditions, cultures, behaviors and policies among others. This assumption alone renders transformation learning an adaptation to many contexts of learning. The learning systems are also defined by the same aspects and any paradigm that attempts to change them is quite relevant. Yet, those who argue that transformative learning is rooted to enlightenment assumptions escape the very fact that the assumptions per se are problematic. Transformative learning is adapted to learning systems across cultures. According to Merriam and Ntseane (2008), the many studies on transformative learning were based on Western rationalism and cognitive orientation where individuality, autonomy and rationality were accepted as cultural values. Hitherto, their study on African culture indicated that culture shaped transformational learning and not the other way round. Indeed, the disorientation issues that elicited the transformative learning process were life happenings common to people everywhere across the world. Transformative learning is flexible enough to adapt to knowledge systems rooted to traditional knowledge and perceptions. In his study on the context of Hawaiian traditional ecological knowledge, Feinstein concluded that people from western and indigenous worldviews can learn from each other (Feinstein, 2004).Advertising Looking for coursework on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The curriculum and instruction methodologies designed to enable transformational leaning to take place allowed student-constructed knowledge (p.119). All human beings have an inherent thirst to learn new ideas other than those rooted in the traditions which can be evoked through transformational learning. Transformative learning is adaptable to knowledge systems across ages. It is a fact that both old and young people must embrace changes in order to learn. Young people would require changing in order to be in a better position to meet future challenges while older people might require transforming the lingering experiences that largely control their lives. Shilling (2002) suggests that the adult experience as a result of oppressive and abusive policies that undermined the social, economic, political and cultural functions of indigenous nations could be eliminated through transformative learning. In fact, other systems of learning have a vast collection of resources that can assist in transformative learning process. Despite criticizing the reality of different worldviews on and generalization of transformational learning, Brooks acknowledges that â€Å"the multicultural worldviews enrich our resources and is the obligation of individual to facilitate own transformation irrespective of his/her background† (Brooks, 2000, p.170). Conclusion As a process, t ransformative learning is flexible enough to adapt to other education system. Although many of the previous studies concentrated on the western cultures and views, it is now evident that the paradigm can fit in various contexts. Transformation learning can adapt to learning systems across cultures, ages and traditional knowledge and perceptions. References Brooks, A. K. (2000). Cultures of transformation. In A. L. Wilson E. R. Hayes (Eds.), Handbook of adult and continuing education (pp. 161-170). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. Feinstein, B. C. (2004). Learning and transformation in the context of Hawaiian traditional ecological knowledge. Adult Education Quarterly, 54(2), 105-120.Advertising We will write a custom coursework sample on Concept of Transformative Learning in Modern Education specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Merriam, S. B. Ntseane, G. (2008). Transformational learning in Botswana: How culture shapes the process. Adult Education Quarterly, 58(3), 183-187. Shilling, R. (2002). Journey of spirits: Challenges for adult indigenous learners. In E. O’sullivan, A. Morrell M. A. O’commor (Eds.), Expanding the boundaries of transformative learning: Essays on theory and praxis (pp.151-158). Hampshire, UK: Palgrave Macmillan. This coursework on Concept of Transformative Learning in Modern Education was written and submitted by user Kason W. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge

Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge Abstract Numerous opportunities and challenges exist for service organizations and their customers concerning knowledge-based economy along the effects of information technologies. Knowledge-based economy can impact on management of quality services in the companies.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge-Based Economy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The purpose of the current report is to look at some of these influences. The study aspires to elicit the enormous prospects obtained by players in the service sector, especially in areas of value, co-creation and communication. At the same time, the report reveals various problems that face managers as a result of the poor quality provided by services providers. The value of this report consists of revealing the logical links between transformations in the society, changes in the service sector, and improvements in the management of quality service. The report will highlight the increasing importance of service quality management within the knowledge-based economy in the comparison to the industrial economy. Net-working and collaboration, constant development, and value co-creation are factors that determine realization of sustainable competitive advantage through service quality management. A desktop review literature is the basis of this report. The effort dedicated to the improvement of management of service quality and the value of managers in service quality management within service organizations is analyzed in the conclusion of the report.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Introduction Knowledge-based economies are witnessing tremendous changes in management of service quality as a result of information technology and Internet, having arrived into the market. When servi ce organizations communicate directly to customers, networks that are crucial to dissemination of new types of services are created. The purpose of this report is to reveal the impact of knowledge-based economy on management of service quality within organizations as well as the major tests and chances faced by providers in quality service management. The function of developing service quality which is attributed to the management to develop service management process within the confines of knowledge-based economy has constantly generated a lot of debate. The report brings out the influence of the knowledge-based economy on the service quality management through recognizing logical links between transformations in the society, service, and service quality management. Numerous opportunities and challenges exist for service organizations and their customers because of a combination of knowledge-based economy and influence of information Communication and value co-creation offer positi ve prospects to come while serious problems are posed by the need for managers to provide quality services. There has been a change in business operations as a result of fast growth in the use of information and communication technology within society. Information technology is made up of various components including computers, hardware, software, telecommunications, and the ensuing technologies. This technology can be measured through the stock of applications that organizations have (Ruiz-Mercader et al. 2006). Information and communication technology includes the use of computers, networks, and other equipments and software that process and transmit data (Plumb Zamfir, 2009).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge-Based Economy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Exploitation of information and communication technologies requires skills and competence. Growth of the knowledge society has amplified demand for competences (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Societies have witnessed a significant change in structure and in ways of accessing information (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Consequently, the service sector has witnessed new challenges as methods of doing business change. Increased service-value networks within high value areas have resulted in surfacing of high-tech services (Qiu 2008). High-tech services include information outsourcing, online sharing of information and knowledge, and demand for innovations consulting like automated business. Electronic services are excellent types of service for the knowledge-based society and economy, contributing heavily to general productivity and development. Conventional service providers, such as travel agencies, have established service-value networks intended at achieving competitive advantage (Qiu 2008). This need has stemmed from their dependence on extremely extensive public information infrastructures and c omplex services systems meant to gratifying their international customers needs. Delivery of knowledge-based services is reacting to explicit customer demands through extremely educated and informed workers. This is achieved through offering and delivering customized value-added answers and relations (Dubosson Fragniere 2008). Changes in Conceptions on Service Quality Management The determinant factor in ways changes in the way service organizations are managed is the knowledge-based economy. Service quality is a basic problem for service organization managers. In the knowledge-based economy, there is an increase in Service quality management.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to Yoon and Ekinci (2003), provision of quality services is among the most difficult lasting strategies for business set up. According to Paton and McLaughlin (2008), large organizations sell or procure services on an international scale order since they have established corporation with numerous stakeholders globally. When there is integration of customer knowledge into the operation of the organization, it is possible to understand the needs of the customer fully. This helps the incorporation of the link and contribution of capital as well as boosting satisfaction of the customer. Consequently, service quality management may be a major factor for the triumph of service organizations. Service-dominant logic is the basis of service quality management transformations of within the knowledge-based society. Service-dominant logic portrays service as a process while services were portrayed as units of output in the goods-dominant logic (Vargo Lusch, 2004; Vargo Lusch, 2008). According to Lusch et al. (2006), this new approach is responsive and centered on customer needs. This approach has different effects on the management of services. It envisages ultimate co-creation of value due to connections between the service organization and prospective customers, and joint business between them and other associates (Lusch et al. 2006). According to Vargo et al. (2008: 148), it is imperative to acquire Knowledge and skills if one is to gain competitive advantage in service-dominant logic. The process of value co-creation involves every member (Lusch et al. 2006). The assessment of value-in-use helps the customer to co-creates and determine value of service offered (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Lusch et al. (2006), asserts that a firm can only acceptable value proposition if the customer is involved in the value co-creation. Vargo and Lusch (2008) argue that alterations of philosophies on value creation have consequence on service organizations and their clients. Figu re 1 Value co-creation in service-dominant logic Source: Vargo and Lusch (2008:257) Within the knowledge-based economy, these changes about service, value creation and services management seem to control actions in the service quality management. The growth and rising acceptance of information and communication technology has caused changes to business processes. A case in point is the formation of e-business due to the application of information and communication in business processes (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Competency in rapport determines the feat of the inter-organizational coalitions and their capability to associate and to create value. Networks within service organizations could be strengthened through better knowledge. This could end up impacting on the outcome of such connections (Eikebrokk Olsen 2007). Fuentelsaz et al. (2002: 303), argues that fundamental endeavors must be prepared in the route of learning those activities that are creators of value. Support should be sou ght with the purpose of seeking to support and promote them so as to sustainably create value. According to Fuentelsaz et al. (2002), knowledge-based economy is endowed with unique features that make it possible electronically create value and in so doing offers different ways of doing business compared to conventional methods. However varied the types of services provision are, open networks link people. Management this fact has to be taken into account. Service quality management in both theory and practice is of great significance within knowledge-based economy. Lovelock (1991), suggests that a rise in competition encourages consequential competitive differentiation in the service sector. This differentiation is based on the quality of services to customers. Global financial crisis have created powerful adjustments to management service quality. Because of erosion of purchasing power, customers are more selective when choosing services. They settle for services that would give th em value for money in terms of quality and price. Current economic crisis resulted in reduced demand for services, especially non-vital services like restaurants and theatres. For the reason mentioned above, service quality has long stopped being a market differentiation but rather an essential survival component for the service providers. Perceived value satisfaction, trust, and loyalty are usually linked to quality of service. To illustration, Cronin and Taylor (1992) undertook a study in which they concluded that perceived service quality improved levels of satisfaction. They also discovered that increased levels of perceived satisfaction increased the desire to purchase. According to Bei and Shang (2006), a service organization has put forward comparatively better perceived qualities and mainly those important to customers to do better than its competitors and thus gain competitive advantages. According to Hrtel et al. (2008: 24), customer satisfaction is linked to affective rea ctions generated when one come across a service. A customer’s perception of the success of the result is also related to satisfaction. According to Hsu (2008), the connection between customer loyalty and perceived quality is acquiescent to customer satisfaction. Customer dissatisfaction is as a result of customers not meeting their expectations. This is as opposed to good experiences that result in customer satisfaction Kim et al. (2008). Managers can adopt a higher standard of service quality than the customers’ deserved expectations so as to avoid customer dissatisfaction (Yoon and Ekinci, 2003). Managers should aim at improving service quality and customer satisfaction as well as perceived customer value. Customer satisfaction may dwindle as a result of ignoring customer value. Repeat business may also reduce due to the same reason. Kim et al. (2008) proposes a holistic technique that incorporate enhancement of service value enhancement if an organization is serious about improving service quality and customer satisfaction Customer satisfaction is even more vital regarding electronic services since networks permit knowledge sharing between customers. In the case of service providers, a dissatisfied customer may spread negative publicity to probable customers when he is exposed to low level of service quality than he or she expected. This contrary to conventional settings where this danger is minimal (Hsu 2008).Therefore, online service providers must ensure that they have a full understanding of factors that influence online customer satisfaction (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Customer satisfaction, loyalty, and perceived value are boosted by trust. Customers who are not in a position to physically inspect the quality of a service they want normally have high level of doubt as regarding the outcome of the purchase. They do not trust that they will get the equivalent of their expectations. According to Hsu (2008), levels of perceived risk reduce with i ncreasing levels of trust. The production, exchange and analysis of information is made possible through enabling providers and clients to scrutinize, assess, and negotiate the conditions of their relationship (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Therefore, it is imperative to maintain good information channels so as to enable sustainable interaction and networking of people and technology (Blomberg 2008: 213). A full understanding of a customers’ perception and evaluation of the service quality of an online service provider is crucial for the successful implementation of superior service quality. Hsu (2008) suggests several areas that when improved may have significant impact within an online service organization. The exact areas include; improved customer service, accurate order fulfillment, increased Web site attractiveness, and on-time delivery. Value co-creation is established on the principle of capability to acquire knowledge about other members in the service system. According to B lomberg (2008: 221), the capacity to offer extremely proficient and useful service is improved through gathering information on partners operations, providers, and customers. Where this is the case, service quality should be approximately equal to or higher than the desired expectation to improve perceived quality or customer satisfaction (Yoon Ekinci 2003: 20). A superior way of assessing service quality and customer satisfaction is by use of an expectation scale together with general satisfaction and service quality. This would offer more legitimate information and advance a managers’ decision making (Yoon Ekinci 2003). Practical Implications It is hard to make constructive generalizations regarding the quality management of service organizations because of multiplicity of service. New business surroundings have recently embraced sophisticated information and communication technologies, increased globalization of trade, increased automation, and rapid technological innova tions (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). According to Qiu (2008), service sector has progressed from traditional labour intensive industry to sources of innovation, partnership, and value co-creation. These factors are crucial for managing service. Knowledge is the fundamental of competitive advantage within the knowledge based economy. It is also the heart of innovations in service organizations and originates from making sense of data and transformation of information. Consequently, it is crucial for clients and managers of service organizations to have information as it allows them to make proper, rational, and quick decisions. A rational decision-making process is shaped by the pace of information exchange, the ease of access to information, and the potential to look for and store of information. Large quantities of information may not necessarily translate into a smooth decision-making process because the bulk of information may be irrelevant. Therefore, effective management of information is vital to ensure that the value of information is taken into account (Dubosson Fragniere 2008). When people perceive information as being valuable, their response is immediate. The immediate response causes an increase in the ability to innovate, adaptability, and flexibility to market dynamics. Information and communication technologies advancement has resulted in improved inter-organizational cooperation and communication as well as cooperation and communication between organizations and their customers. This has eased global services delivery and thus facilitates globalization of services and opening up of international markets. The result is increased profits for service organizations that are now able to compete with top-notch opponents (Cunningham et al. 2004: 421). According to Anderson et al. (2008), information may be an important tool for managers. Managers may appeal to particular clients or even enact diverse co-production processes through redesigning the concept of service organizations. The service revolution is different from the industrial revolution as it encourages value as opposed to material. This is a manifestation of sustainable underpinning for the knowledge-based economy (Chan Hsu 2009). Service-dominant logic is founded on variation of the prototype of value delivery to value propositions and of value-added to value co-creation (Vargo Lusch, 2004; Vargo Lusch, 2008). According to Chan and Hsu (2009), increase of internet-based economic activities result in novel value propositions and value co-creation. These originate from three main sources: increase of digital relations between organizations and clients, the accumulation of fresh digital relations, and the interrelation of layers of digital relations across and along a person’s and an organization’s life cycle tasks. Thus, because networks combine clients and value-oriented organizations, their application allows service organizations to provide quality service s since (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Customer needs may be customized to be in tune with flexibility and adaptability of services by employing information and communication technologies. Competitive services may be fostered through effective integration of new technologies in the service process. This may occur as a result of active support of growth tachniques related to innovation, partnership, and value co-creation. Given that perception of service quality by customers is mostly dependent on the relations between the service provider and the customer, knowledge sharing through networks could improve these relations and thus increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. Conclusions Service quality management is greatly undergoing change as a result of Knowledge-based economy. This economy is not only knowledge-driven, but relies on constant development of people and also entails deep network collaboration. The economy also involves value co-creation geared towards achievement of sustainab le competitive advantage. Despite the many opportunities enjoyed by service organizations and their customers within the knowledge-based economy, there are challenges posed by stringent requirements regarding the quality of provided. The main opportunities related to solutions delivery include: communication, intense network cooperation, value co-creation, and customized value-added services (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). There are various challenges in the service organizations such as changes in client demand for service quality, competences necessary for proper exploitation of information and communication technologies, and the requirement for acquisition of skill and development. Another challenge is the need to transform traditional service organizations into contemporary service organizations. Recent financial crisis has shrunk opportunities and amplified problems in the service organizations. Investments for innovation my help in resolving the challenges brought by financial crisis. Within the service sector, innovations may positively influence service quality and customer satisfaction. The conclusion defends the devotion of effort aimed at raising the service quality management standards. The conclusion is important to service organization managers who are working in highly sensitive area similar to the service quality management. There is need to conduct extensive studies in the area of service quality management so as to recognize and assess definite facets of managing service quality for diverse circumstance of service organizations and for diverse categories of services provided within the knowledge-based economy. Studies in this field could also test the conclusions laid down in this report. This may possibly be achieved by questioning service organization managers and then contrasting the information gathered to the conclusions made in the current report. References Anderson, S, Pearo, LK Widener, SK 2008, ‘Drivers of Service Satisfaction: Linkin g Customer Satisfaction to the Service Concept and Customer Characteristics’, Journal of Service Research, vol.10 no.4, pp. 365-381. Bei, LT, Shang, CF 2006, ‘Building Marketing Strategies for State-Owned Enterprises Against Private Ones Based on the Perspectives of Customer Satisfaction and Service Quality’, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Vol. 13,pp.1-13. Blomberg, J 2008, ‘Negotiating Meaning of Shared Information in Service System Encounters’, European Management Journal, vol.26, pp. 213-222. Chan, WKV, Hsu, C 2009, Service Scaling on Hyper-Networks. Web. Cronin, JJ, Taylor, SA. 1992, ‘Measuring Service Quality: A Reexamination and Extension’, Journal of Marketing, vol. 56, pp. 55–68. Cunningham, LF, Young, CE, Ulaga, W Lee, M 2004, ‘Consumer Views of Service Classifications in the USA and France’, Journal of Services Marketing, vol.18 no.6, pp. 421-432. Davis, MM 1991, ‘How Long Should a Custom er Wait for Service?’, Decision Sciences, vol. 22,pp. 421–434. Dubosson, M, Fragniere, E 2008, ‘The Consequences of Information Overload in  Knowledge Based Service Economies: An Empirical Research Conducted in Geneva, Service Science’. Web. Eikebrokk, TR, Olsen, DH 2007, ‘An Empirical Investigation of Competency Factors Affecting E-Business Success in European SMEs’, Information Management, vol.44 no.4, pp.364-383. Fuentelsaz, L, Maicas-Là ³pez, JP, Polo, Y 2002, ‘Assessments of the â€Å"New Economy† Scenario’, Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, vol.5 no.4, pp. 301-310. Harris, LC, Goode, MMH 2004, ‘The Four Levels of Loyalty and the Pivotal Role of Trust: A Study of Online Service Dynamics’, Journal of Retailing, vol.80, pp.139-158. Hrtel, CEJ, Gough, H Hrtel, GF 2008, ‘Work-group Emotional Climate, Emotion Management Skills, and Service Attitudes and Performance’, As ia Pacific Journal of Human Resources, vol.46 no.1, pp. 21-37. Hsu, SH 2008, ‘Developing an Index for Online Customer Satisfaction: Adaptation of American Customer Satisfaction Index’, Expert Systems with Applications, vol.34, pp. 3033–3042. Kim, KH, Kim, KS, Kim, DY, Kim, JH Kang, SH 2008, ‘Brand Equity in Hospital Marketing’, Journal of Business Research, vol.61, pp.75–82. Lin, WB 2007, ‘The Exploration of Customer Satisfaction Model from a Comprehensive Perspective’, Expert Systems with Applications, vol.33, pp.110-121. Lovelock, C 1991, Services marketing, 2nd ed., Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Lusch, RF, Vargo, SL Malter, AJ 2006, ‘Marketing as Service-Exchange: Taking a Leadership Role in Global Marketing Management’, Organizational Dynamics, vol.35 no.3, pp. 264–278. Lusch, RF, Vargo, SL O’Brien, M 2007, ‘Competing through Service: Insights from Service-Dominant Logic, Journal of Retailing’, vol.83 no.1, pp. 5-18. Paton, RA, McLaughlin, S 2008, ‘Services Innovation: Knowledge Transfer and the Supply Chain’, European Management Journal, vol. 26, pp. 77-83. Plumb, I Zamfir, A 2009, Managing service quality within the knowledge-based economy: opportunities and challenges, Quality Management in Services, vol. 11, no. 26, pp. 373-382. Qiu, R. G 2008, Service Science: Scientific Study of Service Systems. Web. Ruiz-Mercader, J, Merono-Cerdan, AL, Sabater-Sanchez, R 2006, ‘Information Technology and Learning: Their Relationship and Impact on Organisational Performance in Small Businesses’, International Journal of Information Management,  Vol.26 no.1, pp. 16-29. Vargo, S. L., Lusch, RF, From Goods to Service(s): Divergences and Convergences of Logics, Industrial Marketing Management, 37: 254-259, 2008. Vargo, SL Lusch, RF 2004, ‘The Four Service Marketing Myths: Remnants of a Goods-Based, Manufacturing Model’, Journ al of Service Research, vol.6 no.4, pp. 324-335. Vargo, SL, Maglio, PP Akaka, MA 2008, ‘On Value and Value Co-creation: A Service Systems and Service Logic Perspective’, European Management Journal, vol.26, pp. 145-152. Yoon, TH Ekinci, Y 2003, ‘An Examination Of The Servqual Dimensions Using The Guttman Scaling Procedure’, Journal of Hospitality Tourism Research, vol.27 no.1, pp. 3-23.

Discussion Board Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Discussion Board Questions - Essay Example Similarly, P-O fit is imperative in assessing the risk of hiring an employee. Despite the significance of person-organisation match, it is not desirable to ignore the person-job match. This implies that during the recruitment process, it is vital for the recruiters to provide adequate information regarding the job. These include the qualifications, duties and the skills required. It is imperative to note that employees should have the background and the appropriate training in order to effectively undertake the duties as defined by the organisation. Additionally, passion for the job is a major aspect that employers should look for during the hiring process. Employees who have passion for the duties allocated to them are not only motivated but also they are highly productive. Affirmative action entails the statistical information that depicts the relationship between the qualified potential employees and the actual number of the people employed. One of the key aspects of the affirmative action is to establish a goal that is focused at ensuring that the right number of qualified women and minorities is employed. On the other hand, quotas are imposed by government authorities especially for the organisations that depict employment discrimination over a period of time. One of the major ways of ensuring that knowledge, skills, abilities and other attributes (KSAQ) deficiencies do not occur in an organisation is use of lecturers to convey knowledge to the employees. For instance, managers should hold regular meetings with their employees in order to train them on how to use communication system as well use of computers as a way of saving and sending files. In the same way, organisations should allocate a reasonable discussion time when employees can ask questions on the topics covered during the lecturers. Taking into consideration the need of enhancing the

The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Sustainability Essay

The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Sustainability Development - Essay Example In addition the study will also shed light on the benefits of sustainable development to both societies as well as to the organizations. However, the study will mainly focus on the role played by corporate social responsibility (CSR) in fostering sustainable development of a company. Finally, on the basis of the findings the study will draw a conclusion. Discussion Since the late 1980s, nations from different parts of the world have been discussing about the need of sustainable development. The issue became more apparent when scientists identified the degradation of the ecosystem due to organizational activities. The subject of global warming was also becoming a cause of concern (Polese and Stren, 2000). In addition, to reduce the damages caused by the human and organizational activities, sustainable development become necessary. Nevertheless, after a certain point of time, sustainable development became an obligation for the organizations. Sustainable development is not only necessa ry for preserving the society and environment, but it is beneficial for both organizations as well as for the society. The study will now discuss about the advantages of sustainable development for both organizations and society. Advantages of Sustainable Development for Organizations In response to the increasing environmental challenge, high inequalities in the communal development, organizations around the world have adopted sustainable development, as their growth model (United Nations Industrial Development Organization, n.d). However, this approach has not only helped companies to continue their operation in an eco friendly way, but has also provided them with large numbers of benefits. Some of the most common ones are... This report declares that nowadays, most of the companies around the world have adopted different CSR mechanisms. Moreover, the mission and vision statement of some companies are formulated in such a way that it reflects the company’s viewpoint towards the society and environment. At the same time, these companies have also implemented innovative technologies by which they can reduce the consumption of energy and resources. Rapid population growth, globalization, urbanization and increasing middle class are the driving factors towards lessening down of scarce resources such as water, energy and raw materials. The study was about identifying the role played by corporate social responsibility in the sustainable development process of an organization. In order to satisfy the objective, the study has comprehensively researched the theories proposed by the scholars previously. In addition, real life examples regarding the area of concern were also considered. The study revealed that most of the firms around the world have adopted CSR activities in order to ensure both company as well as society gets benefitted by it. In addition, from the study it has been also identified that several CSR activities such as the smarter planet of IBM, Kellogg’s ‘k-value’ are playing a crucial role in the sustainable development process of the organizations. Therefore it can be concluded that corporate social responsibility is playing a major role in fostering sustainable development.

Perfume Fragrances Online. Online Cosmetics Retailer Essay

Perfume Fragrances Online. Online Cosmetics Retailer - Essay Example The company being established is a new player within the online retailing community, and more specifically operating within the cosmetics, perfume and fragrances sector of this retail market. The company is newly established and is focussing on the internet platform for a number of reasons including but not limited to the substantial reduction of overheads, based on the fact that retail venues, shops and locations are not specifically required to generate income for the company. In addition to this the company has identified a number of key issues, specifically within the online marketing, and search engine optimization fields that stand to benefit the company in boosting online sales via strategic brand marketing within the various products that will be sold via the online store. The brand of Perfume Fragrances Online will operate on a skeleton administrative staff, which includes staff for the processing of orders, based upon their wholesale accounts and contracts with established cosmetic companies, which do and will continue to provide drop ship services to Perfume Fragrances Online customers. This concept drastically reduces staff complements, and can realize a more significant contribution towards the marketing and brand strategy budget. This brand management strategy can be seen as focused entirely upon the internet opportunities that currently exist, and to this end the numerous platforms, such as social media marketing, pay per click and search engine optimization techniques and processes will be implemented in establishing the online presence of the company within the defined sectors and targeted segments of online users.

The Equal Rights Amendment

The Equal Rights Amendment Equality of Rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on the account of sex. (Eracampaign.com) The truth about the Equal Rights Amendment is that technically, under the constitution, women do not have the same rights as men do. Equality: the state or quality of being equal; correspondence in quantity, degree, value, rank, or ability. (dictionary.com) Every citizen in the United States, is striving to be equal as every other American, but the truth is the United States Constitution does not state that men and women have equal rights. The Equal Rights Amendment was proposed in 1923. Fifteen states choose not to ratify the amendment, these states include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah, and Virginia. The mission of the Equal Rights Amendment is to confirm, and ratify an amendment that states, men and women have the same equal rights as one another. Alice Paul was the citizen who introduced the Equal Rights Amendment, and strived to show a greater message in her journey. Her message had become so widely popular, that it was more commonly referred as the Alice Paul Amendment then the Equal Rights Amendment. (equalrightsamendment.org) We are a national, non-partisan, single-issue, grassroots organization. Our mission is to build solidarity among Americans for ratifying and promulgating the Equal Rights Amendment to the US Constitution. (4era.org) The previous quotation is from a well known organization called 4era. The main purpose of this organization is to educated citizens of the need to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, so that both men and women are considered as equals. The view point of 4era is that they are trying to promote a true progression of a realistic democracy, and improve the United States society as a whole. This organization has conducted many different petitions and poles, to show what American citizens think about the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Another organization that has become widely popular is NOW, which has a similar mission that they are trying to receive. Some of the founders of NOW were Gene Boyer (1925-2003), Kathryn Clarenbach (1920-1994), and Inez Casiano (1926). In 1967 (NOW) ledges to fight until the ratification of ERA is put into place. (womenhistory.about.com) A majority of 4era reasoning for ratifying the constitution come from the many poles and petitions that they provide for United States citizens to take. In July 2001, 4era a survey was conducted for the Era Campaign Network in order to see a clear view of the American population. This survey involved 1,002 adults, comprising 500 men and 502 women- 18 years of age or older, living in private households in the continental United States. 4era conducts their surveys with the most advanced methods and technologies that are available to them. 95% of men agreed that men and women should have equal rights. 97% of women agreed that men and women should have equal rights. As far as you know, does the constitution make it clear that men and women citizens are suppose to have equal rights? 72% said yes. 18% said no. 10% said that they did not know. In your opinion, should the constitution make it clear that female and male citizens are supposed to have equal rights? 88% said yes. 9% said no. 3% said that they didnt know. This survey ended up showing that a majority of American citizens think that it is important that it is put into the constitution that men and women have equal rights. (eracampaign.net) There are several reasons why many organizations are for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Firstly, it would provide a constitutional and legal reason for both men, and women to have equal opportunities. This would end discrimination in the workplace, and any other institution that may be discriminate because of sex. In There would be no question of discrimination against either sex, because there rights would officially be protected in the U.S. Constitution. There are also several organizations that are against the ratification the amendment, including an organization called the Campaign Committee against the Equal Rights Amendment, though it later was disbanded in Feb.1939, for lack of money to keep the organization going. (now.org) Secondly, the Equal Rights Amendment would help clarify the status of sex discrimination for the courts. (equalrightsamendment.org) From then on, sex would be a determining factor for suspect classification, just as other factors are including different races. Men and women would have to be treated the same when it would come to such matters. Both sexes would receive the same equal treatment, when dealing with criminal facilities, and the treatment that they receive in these facilities while serving time. Lastly, in many American citizens opinions it would send a strong message to the entire United States of America. The fact is that there is no specific part of the amendment where is states that men and women are constitutionally allowed to have the same rights. In many peoples opinions, if the ratification doesnt happen soon the discrimination of women will become even harsher. The message that it would be sending is- the constitution has zero tolerance for sex discrimination under the law. The ERA is suspected to be very helpful. (equalrightsamendment.org) The Equal Rights Amendment will be very beneficial towards women, but it will also help other people, including males. For example, males that work in a workplace with more women typically do not get the salary that the females receive; if this amendment is past it will change this. Though not as severe, there is some discrimination against men in the US. There have been some cases in the past were American women have a child overseas. Under the constitution, that child will automatically become an American citizen. It is not the same for men, if a child is both from an American man, but not an American women, the child would not be American. If the Equal Rights Amendment is past it will change this, so these situations would no longer cause problems. (4era.org) There are many myths involving after the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. The first myth is that ERA will mean that women will have to be drafted along with men. This statement is incorrect. The truth is Congress already has the power to do so, even if this amendment is not passed. Women can still be drafted if they were needed to serve for their country. Article 1, section 8 of the constitution gives Congress the power to raise armies but does not specify gender or age limitations. (4era.org) The second myth that is commonly heard is the Era will allow same sex marriages across the United States. This is also untrue. Though in the ERA it states that men and women are guaranteed the same rights, but it does not state anything about marriage. When it states sex in the constitution it is only referring to gender, this also has the same stating in the 19th Amendment. The 19th Amendment also gives women the right to vote. Same-sex marriage is not covered in the ERA, and will not change after the ratification of the ERA. (4era.org) The third myth is that this amendment will not have any purpose because the rights of women are already protected under the 14th amendment. The 14th amendment states, No state shall make, nor enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty or property, without due process of law; now deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.(eracampaign.net). In actuality, there is no part of the amendment that says women are guaranteed the same rights as men are. The main purpose of passing the 14th amendment was to guarantee that African Americans were given the same rights, though African American women are not guaranteed under this amendment, as well as any other females. Though the 14th amendment has helped women a lot in the past, will different cases of discrimination, it is not a sure thing. There are many important people that have put the problem of womens rights into perspective. Betty Friedan led the National Organization for Women to its active support of the Equal Rights Amendment. Alice Paul was the main reason for ERA; she introduced the entire concept to the Congress in 1923. Alice Paul died on July 9th, 1977 at the age of 92. Gloria Steinem was both a feminist and journalist. She was the key figure in the womens rights movement from 1969. She also founded Ms. Magazine. She was often attacked by radicalisms, because she was believed to only promote benefits for women of the middle class. She was a very outspoken advocate for the ERA, and helped found the Nationals Women Political Caucus. She once quoted this, I have met brave women who are exploring the outer edge of human possibility, with no history to guide them, and with courage to make them vulnerable that I find moving beyond words. (womenshistory.about.com) There has been some controversy over the ERA, because some people are worried that it will have a negative effect on society. Though there have been similar problems in the past that have been resolved the same way. During the Civil War Act helped many people, including African Americans. Racism was a very huge issue, but after the Act was passed racism was no longer a factor and was no longer tolerated in the United States. The Equal Rights Amendment is very similar to the Civil War Acts. Just like the Civil War Acts eliminated the issue of racism, the Equal Rights Amendment will eliminate the issue of sex discrimination. (equalrightsamendment.org) In many citizens opinions, the time for the ratification has past and that there is no longer a chance that it will get ratified. Though, with the election of Barack Obama (2008 president) , many other people think that this is the perfect time for ratification. During an awards ceremony, a representative from the National Womens Political Caucus on July 14, 2009, that she wished to pursue trying to get the amendment ratified even further. During the assemble she announced, If we can get it to the floor, it can pass. This representative said that she was going to present the ideas to Congress on July 21, 2009. Though for different reasons, she was never able to present her ideas to Congress. (womenissues.about.com) There are been many recent events that have involved the ERA discussion, up-to-date members are still voting to expand the constitutional amendment strategy that would end any discrimination based on the qualities of sex, race, sexual orientation, marital status, ethnicity, national origin, color, or indigence. Members also call for further study of age, and the troubles that classes that are involved with the struggles of trying to get constitutional equality between all Americans. In my opinion I think that ratifying the amendment would solve a lot of discrimination problems that are faced every day in America. The National Constitutional Equality Amendment (CEA) Committee continues to look over the amendment. This organization produces much different information that is available to all of the public, so they can be educated on the topic. (now.org) Equality is a quality that cannot just be given to a person. It must be earned and achieved, by hard work, and determination. Though the ratification has been rejected in the past, many people feel the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment is needed, so that not only women no longer have to deal with discrimination, but every American have there our equality. Future events will shape what will happen with the Equal Rights Amendment, and the ratification of such amendment, but for now, the true is, under the Constitution of the United States of America women to not have equal rights such as men do. Work Cited Page Harper, Douglas. Equality. Houghton Mifflin Company, Web. 3 May 2010. . Lowen, Linda. What is the Equal Rights Amendment or ERA?. The New York Times Company., 20 July 2009. Web. 22 Apr. 2010. . Unknown. Chronology of the Equal Rights Amendment, 1923-1996. National Organization for Women, Web. 19 Apr. 2010. . Unknown. ERA Campaign Network . ERA Campaign Network, 30 June 2009 . Web. 20 Apr. 2010. . Unknown . Equal Rights Amendment . Alice Paul Institute, Web. 19 Apr. 2010. . Unknown . The Equal Rights Amendment . N.p. , 18 Apr. 2010. Web. 19 Apr. 2010. . Unknown Womens History. Equal Rights Amendment . The New York Times Company., Web. 19 Apr. 2010.

California History :: American America History

California History 1. EPIC EPIC is the Educational Participation in Communities. This organization involves students as volunteers in the fight against poverty and social neglect in local communities. The goal is social awareness and student involvement. It says that poverty, neglect, and social inequity are a growing reality for millions of people in America. Families are losing their homes, people can't find good jobs, children go hungry, and education in the inner-city is a disaster. There is a is problem because the public and community programs that serve as a safety net to assist such populations are strained beyond their capacity and are usually understaffed and under-funded. Since they cannot do the job without help, EPIC helps. It recruits college students to do volunteer work in schools, hospitals, community centers, legal aid, probation, youth agencies, and other and public service programs. EPIC volunteers provide thousands of volunteer hours to the community. 2. Earl Warren Earl Warren was a political leader. He was a governor of California, but he is remembered as the chief justice who led the Supreme Court of the United States when it made big changes in civil rights laws and in criminal procedures. Warren was a liberal Republican, and he was born in Los Angeles, California. He was elected attorney general of California in 1938. During his four years in office he gained standing as a strong enemy of racketeers. He was elected governor of California in 1942. His progressive policies won him bipartisan support and he was reelected as governor in 1946 and 1950. He was seen as an activist on the Supreme Court, as well as a liberal. 3. Pat Brown Pat Brown was the governor of California. He was elected two times, for two terms (12 years total). He was a Democrat. He thought that nobody could beat him, but the Republican, Ronald Reagan, beat him in the 1966 election. Brown had good policies, and by 1962 California had a booming economy and the largest population of any US state. Brown generously funded social programs that were a factor to the state's prosperity. He enlarged the University of California system, and he built many water projects. During Brown's two terms a governor, the California legislature passed some of the most progressive civil rights laws in the US. 4. Ronald Reagan In 1966 Ronald Reagan beat Pat Brown by a landslide in the election for California governor.